The following terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
  (1) Department--Department of State Health Services.
  (2) Essential public health services--As defined by Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 121.
  (3) Health authority--A physician who administers state and local laws relating to public health, appointed under the Local Public Health Reorganization Act, Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 121, by the governing body of a city, county, or public health district.
  (4) Local public health entity--A local health unit, local health department, or public health district.
  (5) Public health data--Any data relating to:
    (A) the health status of people, living or dead;
    (B) health, including data on the extent and nature of the disease, illness, disability, injury, and other aspects of well-being;
    (C) environmental, behavioral, occupational, social, and other health hazards; and
    (D) determinants of health.
  (6) Region--A geographic area in the State of Texas designated by the department.
  (7) Regional Director--A physician who is employed by the department and serves as the chief administrative officer of a region.

Source Note: The provisions of this §85.1 adopted to be effective February 1, 2021, 45 TexReg 8522